In this paper, findings from a detailed literature review (which was commissioned in March 2002 by Queen Margaret University College, UK) on Gypsy/Travellers’ health are presented as well as suggestions on where “gaps” exist in related empirical research.

Access to health care is a right guaranteed to every citizen by Macedonian constitution, respective national healthcare legislation and ratified international documents. The constitutional and legal stipulations provide for geographic and physical access (through a network of healthcare institutions on primary, secondary and tertiary level) and financial access, guaranteed through the universal health insurance coverage of the basic benefits package, based on the principles of equity and solidarity.

Bergitka Roma (Mountain Romanis) is the poorest group of Roma in Poland. Most of them are excluded from major society; their educational level is very low. They are also least respected by other Roma groups. We were implementing Pilot Government Program for Roma Community in Malopolska for 2001 – 2003 health situation of Roma families living in submontane regions was very alarming. Serious health problems resulted among other things, from low standard of hygiene and extremely poor social conditions, also limited access to health services.

Several models have been proposed to explain the association between ethnicity and health. It was investigated whether the association between Roma ethnicity and health is fully mediated by socioeconomic status in Hungary.

A dramatic drop in employment occurred in Hungary following the change of regime which particularly affected the Roma, people of reduced working ability, and mothers with young children. Alongside economic considerations, the prejudices of employers and discrimination in employment constitute the most significant obstacles to returning to the workplace. The poor mental and physical health of these groups further reduces their chances of finding employment. Only legislation exists to manage the problem, which-in the absence of other interventions-has not brought a breakthrough in the employment of these groups in either the state or local governments or in private spheres.